At first I was confused. I have only seen glamorous pictures of Audrey Hepburn. She is the woman I think of when I dress for an interview or fancy party. However, as much as I think Audrey is lovely and sophisticated in those pictures, this picture may be her most beautiful.

So the point of my study break is to write about how important it is for the most fortunate to help those in need. This is particularly important for any young women out there who hopes to become a lady. I would argue that you cannot be a true lady without being willing to give of yourself and to donate time and compassion to those less fortunate.

I was lucky enough to go to Garrison Forest School in Owings Mills, Maryland. At Garrison, community service was ingrained in the students from a young age. At UVa, it is now a continuous part of my life, giving tours of the art museum, raising money for my sorority philanthropy and going on service trips to Brazil and Trinidad for spring break.

I consider myself lucky to have community service as an active part of my life. However, what do you do if you do not have this? How do you start? First, you need to turn off the TV or computer. Next, you can explore the opportunities. You can go to your local animal shelter and ask what you can do to help. If you are in school, you could start a winter clothing drive and motivate your peers to donate gloves, coats, sweaters and hats, which you can then take to your local Good Will. If you are like me, and busy with exams, how about texting a friend you know is having a rough semester or giving an hour of your time to a local soup kitchen. With these steps, you are closer to becoming a lady, but better yet, a good person.

Keep in mind that it is easy to combine community service with a passion of your own. Do you like children? Consider helping out at Sunday school or an abused women and children’s center. Do you like art? What about volunteering at a museum over your winter break?

What do you do to serve your community? How do you combine community service with your interests? What are some opportunities I have forgotten to mention?